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It’s all Greek to them, annual festival hits city
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Related Topics: BALTIMORE
BALTIMORE (Map, News) - Since the late 1970s, the annual Saint Nicholas Greek Folk Festival has treated Baltimoreans to the best and most authentic of Hellenic dance, food, crafts and music. This year is no exception as Greek traditions, culture and life are once again celebrated.
From 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, the festivities take place at St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church, both outdoors and inside the church hall.
“This weekend is the culmination of months of preparation,” said Chrys Kefalas, public relations spokesperson for the church, adding that the food alone “is as good as my mom makes.”
Greek Cuisine, as integral to the culture as music, is in abundance here. Revelers can choose from such offerings as Gyros, grilled octopus, moussaka, Greek salad, Baklava and Karadopita. (Those unfamiliar with any or all of these dishes will have a great time discovering and enjoying them.)
Craft booths offer items for purchase that include religious icons and texts, fine jewelry, Greek music CDs, handcrafted items and Greek cookbooks — in English, of course!
For centuries, music and dancing have been the cornerstone of Greek tradition, culture and life itself. Since the festival celebrates life, music and dancing take center stage this weekend. Greek Orthodox parishes from all across the state and even the region will perform traditional Greek dances in costume.
“There will be dancing during the day from noon to 6 and dancing in the street from 6 p.m. to 11:30 p.m.,” Kefalas said.
Live musical entertainment includes Apollonia, one of the top Greek groups in America. Also featured are Tony Pearce on his keyboards and bouzouki, playing both traditional and modern Greek and American music.
Kefalas calls the festival a real family affair with plenty of food and fun for everyone.
“I won’t miss a moment of it,” he laughed. “Fortunately, I’m not on the clean-up committee. I’ve got to be in the office early Monday.”
The Festival
» What: The Saint Nicholas Greek Folk Festival
» Where: St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church, 520 S. Ponca St., Baltimore
» When: 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday and Sunday
» Admission: Free
Comments from Examiner Readers
10:35 AM MST on Fri., Aug. 22, 2008 re: "Maryland State Fair kicks off today"
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12:57 PM MST on Wed., Jul. 2, 2008
re: "Fourth of July to be rescheduled after riots in Havre de Grace"
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4:05 PM MST on Wed., Apr. 16, 2008
re: "Eight days of carnival rides, hot dogs, funnel cakes and fun"
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1:44 PM MST on Fri., Jul. 27, 2007
re: "Book fest gives writers public voice"
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4:24 PM MST on Fri., Jun. 1, 2007
re: "This weekend, it's all about the Polish"
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3:43 PM MST on Fri., Jun. 1, 2007
re: "This weekend, it's all about the Polish"
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3:42 PM MST on Fri., Jun. 1, 2007
re: "This weekend, it's all about the Polish"
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1:55 PM MST on Fri., Jun. 1, 2007
re: "This weekend, it's all about the Polish"
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Art LaPole said:
Mr. Miller, I’m taking a family of 6 (4 kids) to the state fair Sunday. They are facing some hard times - so I’m treating them. Are there any coupons or discounts available anywhere? Art LaPole 301-343-2033
4 agree | 3 disagree
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Examiner Reader said:
How sad that things have to be changed because certain scum bags can't keep it together. The Havre de Grace pardade is something my family has done for years and now can't even feel safe to come there. S. Ward Joppatowne
6 agree | 5 disagree
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Examiner Reader said:
wow thats amazing but why would that many people actually come to one single carnival
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Vita M. King said:
The city of baltimore is growing,in what manner?Some people don't welcome the change,the new condos.The prices the go with them the rebuilding,yes the areas look great looking at the big picture.And the people that have to move,out of there surroundings,well some know no other way of life.What will happen next only time will tell,my self I welcome the wonderful condos,the picture book look,but that is only my eyes.The new things that will come about,that have been over due for some.New people out front now new faces that are of old.Get ready Baltimore hold on for the ride.The city already looks like another place,and where are some of the old faces,they have faded.
526 agree | 227 disagree
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Melanie said:
Nice to see Polish pride alive and thriving in Baltimore!
289 agree | 232 disagree
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Examiner Reader said:
Found this on Examiner.com's Event Calendar: Polish Festival Jun 1, 2007 - Jun 3, 2007 At Patterson Park's Pulaski Monument (Eastern Avenue at Linwood Avenue), join The Polish Community Association of Maryland for ethnic music, dance and perogis. Admission ranges from $2-$4. Children under 12 are free with paying adult. Specific scheduling information can be found on the Web site. Location: Patterson Park, Eastern Avenue, Baltimore 21231
229 agree | 266 disagree
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Examiner Reader said:
Yes, what if we're not Polish but want to attend this fesetival? The food sounds great. Please help us know where to go for the festival.
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Mel Lingerman said:
You never give the location of the event in the article.
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